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West & Great South Expedition – From Baobab Avenue to Isalo and the Southwest

  • Land of Giants and Great Horizons (16 Days)

Overview

Experience the ultimate Madagascar adventure ; from the mystical baobabs and limestone canyons of the West to the forests, highlands, and desert horizons of the Great South. This 16-day expedition reveals the island’s most iconic landscapes, its rich traditions, and the warm soul of its people.

Spirit of Madagascar
Day 1 – Arrival in Antananarivo

  • Arrival at Ivato International Airport

  • Meet & greet by our local representative

  • Transfer to your hotel

  • Briefing about the tour and travel conditions in Madagascar

  • Overnight in Antananarivo

Day 2 – Antananarivo ✈️ Morondava

  • Early transfer to the airport for domestic flight

  • Flight to Morondava on the west coast

  • Transfer to hotel and lunch at leisure

  • Afternoon visit to the famous Baobab Avenue

  • Sunset experience among centuries-old baobab trees

  • Overnight in Morondava

Day 3 – Morondava → Bekopaka

  • Early departure towards Bekopaka (Tsingy de Bemaraha area)

  • Scenic drive along the western savannah landscapes

  • Crossing of Tsiribihina and Manambolo rivers by ferry

  • Arrival in Bekopaka in the late afternoon

  • Overnight near Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

Day 4 – The Great Tsingy de Bemaraha

  • Full-day exploration of the Great Tsingy

  • Guided hike through limestone pinnacles, suspension bridges and narrow passages

  • Exceptional views over the karst formations

  • Picnic lunch inside the park

  • Return to lodge and overnight in Bekopaka

Day 5 – Bekopaka → Kirindy → Morondava

  • Early departure back to Morondava

  • Stop at Kirindy Forest Reserve

  • Guided walk to search for lemurs, birds, reptiles and endemic flora

  • Possible sighting of the fossa

  • Arrival in Morondava in the evening

  • Overnight in Morondava

Day 6 – Morondava → Antsirabe

  • Long but scenic drive towards the central highlands

  • Landscapes changing from dry lowlands to green rice fields

  • Arrival in Antsirabe, known for its colonial architecture and thermal springs

  • Overnight in Antsirabe

Day 7 – Antsirabe Exploration

  • City tour of Antsirabe by rickshaw (pousse-pousse)

  • Visit local workshops: miniature cars, embroidery, recycled crafts

  • Visit of Tritriva and Andraikiba Lakes - Historical lakes

  • Free time to explore markets or relax

  • Overnight in Antsirabe

Day 8 – Antsirabe → Ambositra → Ranomafana

  • Drive south with stop in Ambositra

  • Visit Zafimaniry wood carving workshops (UNESCO-listed craftsmanship)

  • Continue towards Ranomafana National Park

  • Arrival in rainforest region

  • Night walk to spot nocturnal animals

  • Overnight in Ranomafana

Day 9 – Ranomafana → Ambalavao → Tsaranoro Valley

  • Morning guided visit in Ranomafana National Park

  • Search for lemurs, chameleons and rare plant species

  • Drive south with stop in Ambalavao

  • Visit Antemoro paper workshop and Silk factory

  • Explore the Anja Reserve - place of the lemur catta

  • Continue to Tsaranoro Valley

  • Overnight near Tsaranoro

Day 10 – Hiking in Tsaranoro Valley

  • Full day dedicated to hiking in Tsaranoro Valley

  • Spectacular granite cliffs and wide open landscapes

  • Optional village visits and cultural encounters

  • Picnic lunch during hike

  • Overnight in Tsaranoro Valley

Spirit of Madagascar

West & Great South Expedition – From Baobab Avenue to Isalo and the Southwest

  • Land of Giants and Great Horizons (16 Days)

Overview

Discover the essence of Madagascar on this unforgettable 16-day journey through the island’s most iconic landscapes. From the central highlands to the wild west, lush rainforests, dramatic canyons, sacred valleys, and pristine beaches, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

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The journey begins in Antananarivo before flying west to Morondava, home to the legendary Baobab Avenue. Watch the sun set behind centuries-old baobabs before heading north to the spectacular Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore razor-sharp limestone formations, suspension bridges, and hidden gorges ; one of Madagascar’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

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Travel back through the dry forests of Kirindy, rich in endemic wildlife, then ascend into the cooler highlands. Discover Antsirabe and Ambositra, where traditional craftsmanship and daily Malagasy life come alive through artisan workshops and local markets. Continue east to Ranomafana National Park, a biodiversity hotspot filled with lemurs, chameleons, and rare plant species.

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The adventure continues south through Ambalavao to the stunning Tsaranoro Valley, framed by massive granite cliffs and open plains. Enjoy hiking and authentic cultural encounters before reaching Isalo National Park, famous for its sandstone formations, deep canyons, natural swimming pools, and breathtaking landscapes.

End your journey along the southwest coast in Ifaty, where turquoise lagoons and white-sand beaches invite relaxation. Snorkel in coral reefs, enjoy peaceful seaside moments, or simply unwind after days of exploration. The tour concludes in Antananarivo with a final city tour before international departure.

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Designed for travelers seeking a deep and authentic experience, this 16-day itinerary showcases Madagascar’s extraordinary diversity : nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation combined in one remarkable journey.

Spirit of Madagascar
Day 11 – Tsaranoro → Ranohira

  • Drive through the southern landscapes

  • Pass by Ihorombe plateau

  • Arrival in Ranohira, gateway to Isalo National Park

  • Sunset viewpoints if time allows

  • Overnight in Ranohira

Day 14 – Ifaty Beach Stay

  • Free day at leisure

  • Optional activities: snorkeling, lagoon excursions, whale watching (seasonal), village visit

  • Relaxation by the beach

  • Overnight in Ifaty

Day 12 – Isalo National Park Exploration

  • Full-day guided exploration of Isalo National Park

  • Hiking through canyons, sandstone formations and natural pools

  • Swimming at the Natural Pool

  • Picnic lunch inside the park

  • Return to hotel and overnight in Ranohira

Day 15 – Tulear ✈️ Antananarivo

  • Transfer to Tulear airport

  • Domestic flight to Antananarivo

  • Transfer to hotel

  • Free evening for last shopping or rest

  • Overnight in Antananarivo

Day 13 – Ranohira → Tulear → Ifaty

  • Drive to Tulear (Toliara)

  • Short city orientation

  • Continue north to Ifaty coastal area

  • Arrival at the hotel

  • Overnight in Ifaty

Day 16 – Antananarivo City Tour & International Departure

  • City tour of Antananarivo: Upper Town, Royal Palace surroundings, local markets

  • Visit craft markets for souvenirs

  • Transfer to the international airport

  • End of services

Highlights

  • Magical sunset at the Avenue of the Baobabs 🌅

  • Adventure in the Great Tsingy de Bemaraha 🪨

  • Wildlife encounters in Kirindy, Ranomafana&Anja Reserve 🐒

  • Cultural stops in Ambositra & Antsirabe workshops 🧵

  • Scenic hike through Tsaranoro Valley ⛰️

  • Canyon trails and natural pools of Isalo National Park 🌄

  • Relaxing seaside stay in Ifaty Beach 🌊

  • Discovery of Antananarivo’s heritage & royal sites 🏙️

Included:
Private car + fuel, English-speaking guide, airport transfers, accommodation (optional), daily support, park guide arrangements, park entrance fees, flexible itinerary.

Not Included:
International flights, domestic flights, meals not mentioned, personal expenses, visa, insurance, tips.

Key Information

  • Duration: 16 days / 15 nights

  • Best travel period: April to November

  • Difficulty level: Moderate (some hikes required)

  • Highlights: Baobab Avenue, Tsingy de Bemaraha, Isalo National Park, Tsaranoro Valley, rainforest and beaches

Practical Information

  • Domestic flights are subject to schedule changes

  • Good walking shoes required for Tsingy and hiking days

  • Light clothing for the west and south, warmer layers for highlands

  • Local guides are compulsory in national parks

  • Travel times may vary due to road conditions

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